To honor Marilyn, Softball Saskatchewan has created the Junior Umpire of the Year Award. This award will be presented to the junior umpire who displays the most commitment, willingness to learn and enjoyment of the game.
This award is for individuals participating at the grassroots level. Include contributions made to our sport at the provincial and/or community level. For more information about the bursaries please click HERE.
Saturday, October 26th, we a wonderful afternoon spend with incredible people. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, and there were even a few heartfelt moments. Congratulations to all who received well-deserved recognition for their outstanding contributions!
Below, you'll find the award winners along with their bios.
Our Coach of the Year award goes to someone whose dedication, leadership, and passion have not only transformed teams but have also left a lasting impact on the lives of countless young athletes.
This year’s recipient has been a guiding force in the world of softball. As the head coach of the U19 A Prairie Dog Selects for 2024, he has led his team to a remarkable season with a record of 46 wins, 10 losses, and 1 tie. Under his leadership, the team has celebrated incredible victories, including gold medals at the Presidents Tournament, the Calgary Tournament, and the Softball Saskatchewan Provincials, along with a bronze at the Canada Cup. They also placed fifth at the Canadian Championships in Saskatoon—an outstanding achievement that speaks to his coaching prowess.
His experience doesn’t stop there. He has dedicated two years to coaching the Boys Selects and has served as an assistant coach on the female Canada Games team for Softball Saskatchewan.
But what truly sets him apart is his unwavering commitment to developing young athletes. He offers countless private lessons and clinics at the Gordie Howe Sports Complex, focusing on catching and hitting. His willingness to share his expertise goes beyond the field, as he serves as the 2nd Vice President on the Saskatoon Minor Softball board and actively helps at the Tommy Douglas Softball Academy, where he imparts essential skills to the next generation of players.
I’ve seen firsthand the impact he has on his players. His dedication goes beyond just teaching the game; he builds confidence, encourages teamwork, and fosters a love for the sport. His positive influence and genuine care for his athletes create an environment where they can thrive and excel.
It is with immense pride and gratitude that I present the Coach of the Year award to an individual who has not only achieved remarkable success but has also dedicated himself to the growth and development of his players. Please join me in congratulating Ryan Ray!
Congratulations Ryan! Your hard work and commitment do not go unnoticed, and we can’t wait to see the continued impact you will have on the sport and its athletes!
It is an honor to present the Male Athlete of the Year Award to an exceptional individual who has demonstrated not only incredible athletic ability but also leadership, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his team and sport.
This year’s recipient, Tom Norris, has been a key player for the Saskatoon Selects over the past three years. His performance has consistently inspired his teammates and impressed his coaches. During the U19 Canadian Championships, Tom earned the title of All-Star Infielder, reflecting his dedication and talent. His stats from that season speak volumes: a batting average of .450, an on-base percentage of .550, and a slugging percentage of .700. He contributed 9 hits, 1 triple, 1 home run, 5 RBIs, and 4 runs scored.
Tom’s journey didn’t stop there. As an underage player, he was picked up by the Delisle Pride to compete in the U23 Canadian Championships, where he again excelled with a .346 batting average and a .414 on-base percentage. Whether at shortstop or second base, his defensive skills and a fielding percentage of .923 make him a standout on the field.
But what truly sets Tom apart is his mindset. In high-pressure moments, Tom approaches the game with calm focus, reminding his team, “It’s no different than playing the Saskatoon Merchants on a Tuesday night.” His ability to stay composed under pressure has earned him the trust of his teammates. Tom’s leadership extends beyond the field, as he is always lifting morale on the bench, keeping everyone positive, and encouraging his team to focus on the next play.
Tom is also dedicated to self-improvement. He actively seeks feedback from his coaches and makes immediate adjustments, whether it's correcting his swing or refining his fielding technique. If he makes an error, he works twice as hard to make up for it, determined to contribute positively to his team.
In challenging times, Tom doesn’t shy away from asking for help. Whether it’s a batting slump or a difficult play, he turns to his coaches and teammates for advice, never hesitating to go back to the basics. His simplicity, hard work, and positive attitude are what makes him a leader, both on and off the field.
For his outstanding contributions, tireless work ethic, and leadership, it is my pleasure to present this year’s Male Athlete of the Year Award to Tom Norris.
Congratulations, Tom. You’ve truly earned this honor.
This year’s recipient has had an extraordinary journey. She was named All-Star Infielder at Nationals, where she showcased her incredible skill with four home runs and an impressive .474 batting average—no errors to boot! Throughout the season, she maintained a .463 batting average, hit 13 home runs, and recorded an astounding 59 RBIs. Her performance has not only earned her accolades but also secured her a spot in the top 25 in Canada for Team Canada tryouts and a chance to represent Saskatchewan at the Summer Games in 2025.
Her individual success is matched by her contributions to her team. This season, she helped lead her team to a bronze medal at the Canada Cup, clinched the title of Saskatchewan Provincial Champions, and brought home a gold medal at the Presidents Tournament. Together, they placed fifth at Nationals—a testament to their hard work and determination.
Beyond her personal and team achievements, her commitment to the sport and her community is truly commendable. She signed with West Texas A&M, NCAA Division 2, and was approached by a B team coaching staff at Nationals to share her expertise. She has generously given back by coaching various camps, running day camps for young players, and even helping with evaluations for zone softball in Saskatoon.
Her dedication to improving the mechanics of throwing, fielding, and batting for young athletes demonstrates her passion for the game and her desire to uplift others in the sport.
She has amazing energy and enthusiasm that she brings to every game, every practice, and every camp. Her drive inspires not just her teammates but anyone who has the privilege of witnessing her in action. She is a true ambassador for the sport, embodying the spirit of hard work and determination.
It is with great pride that I present the Female Athlete of the Year award to someone who has not only excelled on the field but has also made a lasting impact on her community and future generations of athletes.
It is truly an honor to stand before you to recognize an individual who has made an incredible impact on our community through his tireless efforts and leadership. This year’s Volunteer of the Year has gone above and beyond, and his contributions have left a lasting impression on all of us.
This year’s honoree has served as the President of the Saskatoon Bridge City Softball Umpires Association, a role that demands dedication, passion, and a true love for the game. Gavin Russell, our award recipient, has been a calming and steady presence among the umpire community here in Saskatoon, and his leadership has created a sense of unity and professionalism that has uplifted the entire organization.
During his tenure, Saskatoon witnessed remarkable achievements, including the highest number of games officiated by umpires in both the A and B division leagues—a testament to his exceptional coordination and management. Perhaps even more significant, 2024 saw a record increase in the number of youth umpires involved in the game, a direct result of Gavin’s commitment to nurturing the next generation and ensuring the future of the sport remains bright.
Gavin didn’t just manage or participate from the sidelines; he was right there in the thick of it, present at all nine provincial championships hosted in Saskatoon. His presence and guidance during these events ensured smooth operations and a sense of camaraderie among the umpire community.
Moreover, Gavin’s leadership fostered a strong collaboration between the umpires and the Saskatoon Minor Softball League and Saskatoon Amateur Softball Association, strengthening relationships and creating a foundation for even greater success in the years to come.
It’s not just his umpiring or his behind-the-scenes work that makes Gavin deserving of this recognition. His contributions have gone well beyond what was required, setting an example of dedication, sportsmanship, and volunteerism that inspires us all.
Thank you, Gavin, for everything you’ve done for the game, for the community, and for the future of softball in Saskatoon.
We are recognizing Bonnie Miller as Umpire of the Year - a well-deserved honor that acknowledges not only her exceptional skills on the diamond but also her profound influence on the umpiring community.
Bonnie’s journey as an umpire began about ten years ago, thanks to the encouragement and inspiration of her brother, Wayne Miller. What started as a part-time role to help fill games quickly transformed into a full-fledged passion. Bonnie’s love for the game, combined with her commitment to getting every call right, has been a tremendous asset to the umpiring programs in Moose Jaw and across District 3, where she now proudly serves as the Umpire-in-Chief.
On the field, Bonnie is everything you could hope for in an umpire. She commands a strong presence, handles games with remarkable poise, and earns the respect of players, coaches, and everyone involved. Her keen judgment, honed over years of experience and a constant desire to improve, ensures that her calls are as accurate as they are fair. Bonnie never stops seeking feedback, always striving to better herself - a quality that speaks to her integrity and her unwavering commitment to the game.
In fact, it’s this dedication that led to one of Bonnie’s crowning achievements this year: her selection to officiate at the 2024 Western Canadian Boys and Girls Championships in Battleford. Bonnie’s performance was nothing short of outstanding. She not only excelled on the field but also stood out as a supportive, approachable, and friendly presence off the diamond. Her efforts earned her the prestigious Gold Medal plate on the boys' side - a testament to her talent, teamwork, and camaraderie with her fellow umpires.
But, as impressive as she is on the field, Bonnie’s true legacy goes beyond her own accomplishments. She has set herself apart in the way she recruits, mentors, and trains the next generation of umpires, particularly young and first-time officials. Bonnie’s commitment to these young umpires is nothing short of extraordinary. She often schedules herself for U11 games alongside new umpires, creating an environment where they can learn and grow without fear of criticism. Her mentorship ensures that they feel supported, confident, and ready to step up - something that will have a lasting impact on the umpiring community for years to come.
Bonnie, your passion for the game, your dedication to excellence, and your commitment to nurturing others have left an indelible mark on all of us. You have not only elevated the standard of umpiring but have also inspired countless young officials to pursue their own journeys with the same passion and integrity that you bring to the field.
On behalf of everyone here today, I want to say thank you, Bonnie. Thank you for your leadership, your friendship, and your tireless efforts to improve the game we all love. Congratulations once again on being named Umpire of the Year - it is a title that you have earned in every sense of the word.
It is a privilege to stand before you today to honor someone who exemplifies everything we hope to see in a young umpire: dedication, passion, and an eagerness to learn and grow. Today, it gives me great pleasure to present the Junior Umpire of the Year award to an outstanding individual, Prysm Gooding.
In her five years of officiating, Prysm has demonstrated a level of commitment and maturity that far exceeds her years. Her decision to become an umpire wasn’t driven by anything other than a simple love for the game and the enjoyment of officiating. She is one of those rare individuals who would have volunteered to umpire even if it wasn’t a paid position—her passion is that pure.
One of the things that first stood out about Prysm was her initiative. Without any prompting, she took it upon herself to attend the National Mechanics Clinic in Regina. This was entirely her decision—she saw the opportunity, took action, and invested in her own development. This kind of initiative is a hallmark of Prysm’s character and one of the many reasons why she is so deserving of this award.
Prysm's dedication has made her a highly sought-after umpire. Both Regina and Moose Jaw actively reached out to her, recognizing her talent and eagerness to help. What’s even more remarkable is that during a tournament in Regina, where she was also playing, they asked her to umpire, and she didn’t hesitate to step up. Her love for officiating is clear, and her ability to juggle both playing and umpiring speaks volumes about her commitment.
Prysm has also shown herself to be an excellent mentor for younger umpires. She eagerly took on base umpire roles in U9 and U11 games, where she took the time to mentor and guide our newer umpires. She did this with enthusiasm, a deep sense of responsibility, and a genuine love for helping others improve—a quality that sets her apart as not just an umpire, but as a leader.
Over the past year, Prysm has grown immensely as an umpire. She has always been a natural out there—confident, vocal, and exceptional in her communication with coaches and players. But this year, her judgment and knowledge of the rules, which she identified as areas for improvement, have improved dramatically. She put in the work, and it shows.
Her hard work culminated in being selected to officiate at the U15 Western Canadian Championships, where she was entrusted with a playoff plate assignment in the Girls' division. She was also chosen as the third base umpire in the Girls’ Gold Medal game—a reflection of the high regard in which she is held by her peers and mentors alike.
Prysm, your dedication, passion, and growth as an umpire have made you a shining example of what it means to love and serve the game. You’ve earned the respect of players, coaches, and fellow officials, and tonight, it is my honor to recognize you with the Junior Umpire of the Year award. Congratulations, and we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next!
This Outstanding Service Award recognizes an individual who has gone above and beyond for our sport. This year, the award goes to someone who has been a true fixture in the softball coaching community for many years—Alana.
Alana began her coaching journey in 1999 when her eldest daughter, Kelsey, started playing for the Watrous Royals. What began as a way to support her daughter blossomed into a remarkable career in coaching. Even after Kelsey finished her time with the Royals, Alana remained committed to the program as her younger daughter, Tehya, joined the team. Over her two ‘tours of duty’ with the Royals, Alana led her teams to numerous provincial championships, advancing to both Western Canadian and Canadian championships.
But her impact goes far beyond just coaching. For most of her coaching career, Alana has served as the President of the Watrous Minor Ball Association, dedicating countless hours to ensure the program thrives. In 2017, she coached in the inaugural U12 District Showcase for District 5, showcasing her commitment to the development of young players. Most recently, she founded a new U19 team, the Prairie Renegades, which won gold at the provincials in its very first year.
One of the defining moments of Alana's coaching career was attending the Canada Cup in 2016 with the Prairie Renegades. The team had the privilege of playing against Team Ukraine, and in a display of sportsmanship and compassion, the girls organized a fundraiser to present $1,400 to Team Ukraine after their game, contributing to a larger fundraising effort that raised approximately $40,000. This experience exemplifies Alana’s belief that some things are bigger than the game of softball. She has always understood that the lessons learned in sports extend far beyond the field.
After more than 20 years of dedicated coaching, administration, and promotion of the game, Alana stands out as a role model and a mentor for many. Her commitment to her players and the sport is truly inspiring.
It is with great pride that I present this Outstanding Service Award to Alana. Please join me in honoring her remarkable contributions to our softball community!
Congratulations, Alana! Your passion, dedication, and heart for the game have made a lasting impact on everyone you’ve coached and every community you’ve served. Thank you for everything you do! Although Alana couldn’t be here with us today, we celebrate her in spirit and honor her exceptional service.
It’s an honor to be here recognizing someone whose dedication, leadership, and service have left an incredible mark on the softball community—Vanessa.
Vanessa’s journey of service began in 1998 when she joined the Laser Zone Executive. Over the years, her passion for softball and her desire to give back have only grown stronger. She took on the role of Treasurer, ensuring the organization was financially strong, and later became Team Manager, where she supported her own children, Brayden and Danielle, while also contributing to the sport she loved.
Her leadership continued as she stepped into the role of Commissioner for Laser Zone, which deepened her involvement with the Saskatoon Minor Softball League (SMSL). Vanessa’s commitment to the sport was recognized in 2009 when she was elected President of SMSL—a position she held for three years, followed by two years as Past-President. In 2017, Vanessa was once again elected President, and she fulfilled it with unmatched passion and vision until retiring at the end of the 2024 season.
Throughout her time as President, Vanessa was a transformative leader, guiding SMSL through critical moments, including a comprehensive review of the league’s governance and operations. She updated bylaws, aligned member zones, and implemented new recommendations to ensure the league remained strong for future generations. Vanessa's leadership also saw the launch of the Fall Softball League in 2021, which has grown to include both boys and girls from U11 to U17.
Even through the most challenging times, like the COVID-19 pandemic, Vanessa’s commitment never wavered. She guided the league with resilience and creativity, keeping the community connected and, in 2022, brought back the beloved Minor Softball Night with a record 33 U7 teams participating.
Beyond her work in league operations, Vanessa has always been a champion for young athletes. She encouraged indoor training for all age groups, giving players opportunities to grow their skills year-round. She has also led SMSL through zone boundary changes, ensuring the league continues to serve players across Saskatoon and beyond.
Her dedication to organizing and hosting numerous Provincial Championships is another example of her tireless commitment to the sport. Whether it’s recruiting volunteers or managing key events, Vanessa’s efforts have consistently elevated the experience for players, coaches, and fans alike.
Vanessa, your contributions over the years have truly made a difference. You have built a legacy that will continue to impact the softball community for years to come. On behalf of everyone here today, we thank you for your outstanding service and unwavering dedication.
Congratulations on this well-deserved award. You are an inspiration to us all.
It is a privilege to be recognizing someone who embodies the true spirit of volunteerism—a person whose dedication, hard work, and selflessness have been instrumental in the growth and success of softball in Regina. Tonight, we proudly honor Brian McPhee with the Outstanding Service Award.
For over a decade, Brian has been a pillar of support for the Regina Minor Softball League (RMSL). Whether it was as a parent helper or team manager for his daughters’ teams, or as a committed member of Zone 1 (Lazers/Saints) board, Brian has consistently given his time, energy, and expertise to ensure the success of our league. And though his daughters have since moved on from the RMSL, Brian's dedication has never wavered.
Brian has continued to serve as the Zone 1 Equipment Manager and the RMSL U13 Coordinator, roles that require an incredible amount of time and commitment. He has been the go-to person for all things equipment-related, always “on call” and willing to drop whatever he’s doing to make sure our players have what they need. Whether it’s repairing equipment, managing supplies, or ensuring our fields are ready for play, Brian’s work behind the scenes is essential to keeping our league running smoothly.
His dedication goes beyond the technical aspects of the game. Brian is always there—whether it’s handing out medals, grilling burgers in scorching 36-degree heat at the U9 festival, or simply checking in to make sure everything is running smoothly. He has proven time and time again that no task is too big or too small when it comes to supporting RMSL.
Even when his day started early at 5 a.m. for work, Brian always found time to swing by the park and make sure everything was in order. His presence, his reliability, and his unwavering commitment to the league are what make him such a valued member of our community. Brian doesn’t just volunteer his time—he brings passion, care, and a sense of responsibility that is truly inspiring.
He is the very definition of what it means to be a true volunteer. His dedication to keeping softball alive and thriving in Regina has left an indelible mark on our league, and we are all better because of his efforts. Brian, you have set a shining example for others to follow, and we are so grateful for the countless hours you have given to our community.
It is my honor to present this Outstanding Service Award to someone who truly deserves it—Brian McPhee. Thank you for your incredible contributions, and congratulations on this well-earned recognition!
It is with great pride that I stand before you today to honor an incredible achievement in the realm of grassroots sports. This year’s recipient of the President’s Award for Association of the Year is none other than the Dundurn Minor Softball Association.
Softball has a long and proud history in rural Saskatchewan, but we know that the landscape of our province is changing. With shifts in demographics, many rural communities face the challenge of sustaining minor sports. This is especially true for bedroom communities surrounding our major urban centers. However, Dundurn has demonstrated that through vision, dedication, and hard work, minor sports can not only survive but thrive.
With a population of just 675 residents, Dundurn may seem like a small town, but its spirit is anything but small. A few years ago, the local softball association was struggling, but thanks to a passionate group of volunteers, the spark was reignited. Their commitment to revitalizing softball in their community has borne fruit, leading to remarkable growth: membership surged from 95 members in 2022 to 120 in 2023, and now stands at an impressive 148 this year.
In just a short time, the Dundurn Minor Softball Association has made significant strides. In 2023, they registered a U11 Girls team in the provincials, and this year, they proudly fielded three teams: a U13 Girls team, a U13 Boys team, and a U11 Boys team that captured the Bronze medal! This accomplishment not only showcases the growth of their program but also the potential of the young athletes in their community.
Under the leadership of President Justin Higginbotham and the dedicated executive members, this association has truly excelled. They have worked tirelessly to enhance opportunities for both girls and boys in the sport of softball. In a time when boys' softball has been particularly vulnerable, the initiative shown by the Dundurn Minor Softball Association to create new programs is invaluable.
Moreover, when Softball Saskatchewan sought coaches for the 2024 Sask Summer Games program, three outstanding ladies from the Dundurn Minor Softball Association stepped up to lead the District 5 Prairie Central Team. Under the guidance of Head Coach Brandi-Rae Hanson, along with Assistant Coaches Reaschelle Higginbotham and Tyneal McConnell, this team brought home the Gold Medal from the Sask Summer Games in Lloydminster!
On behalf of Softball Saskatchewan, I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Dundurn Minor Softball Association. Thank you to President Justin Higginbotham, the executive team, and all the volunteers in the community who have poured their time, energy, and passion into developing and growing the softball program for both girls and boys. Your efforts are not just appreciated; they are truly inspiring.
Congratulations to the Dundurn Minor Softball Association for your remarkable accomplishments and for being a shining example of what can be achieved through community spirit and dedication. You are deserving of this recognition, and we look forward to seeing your continued success in the years to come!
It is my pleasure to present the Ed Mann Memorial Bursary to a truly remarkable young athlete, Camryn Fuessel, who is unable to join us today. Even in her absence, her dedication and impact on the sport of softball resonate deeply within our community.
Camryn has shown unwavering commitment to the game, always found at the diamond or helping young girls develop their skills. Her love for softball is evident in everything she does, whether it’s coaching or being a positive presence for her peers and younger players.
Camryn has committed to the University of Mary for the fall of 2025, where she will continue as a Division 2 pitcher while pursuing a degree in business or engineering. Her contributions to the sport extend far beyond her playing career. Camryn has actively coached U11 and U13 evaluations and assisted with the U13 Sask Summer Games tryouts. She runs the Storm winter training and pitching club, where young athletes benefit from her guidance. Camryn goes above and beyond, offering one-on-one assistance to those seeking extra help.
She plays for the Storm U17A team and has proudly represented our association at national competitions. Additionally, Camryn serves as a Softball Regina/Storm umpire, managing scorekeeping and gate duties at various tournaments over the past three years.
What stands out most is Camryn's genuine care for younger players. I have witnessed her cheering them on at games, providing encouragement and advice. The joy on their faces when they see her reflects the positive impact she has made in our community. If we didn’t have inspiring young athletes like Camryn, we would risk losing the spirit that makes our sport so special.
Camryn embodies the values of hard work, leadership, and community service that the Ed Mann Memorial Bursary represents. Although she cannot be here to accept this award in person, it is my honor to present the Ed Mann Memorial Bursary to Camryn Fuessel. Congratulations, Camryn! We are proud of you and excited for your future.
It is my great pleasure to present the Ed Mann Memorial Bursary to a truly exceptional individual, Rhyan Sigmeth. Rhyan is a remarkable young woman from Lumsden, Saskatchewan, who is making significant strides in both her academic and athletic pursuits.
At just 19 years old, Rhyan is entering her second year at Valley City State University, where she not only plays softball but is also diligently working toward her degree in Elementary Education. Rhyan embodies the spirit of community engagement, continually contributing to the sport she loves. She has dedicated herself to helping youth develop their skills, offering individual and group pitching lessons to young athletes ranging from U9 to U17 in the Regina and Lumsden areas.
Her commitment to youth development doesn’t stop there. This winter and spring, Rhyan has been an instructor at pitching camps, sharing her expertise and passion for the game. Additionally, she has served as a bench co-coach and mentor for participants in the Energy City Exposure Showcase for the past two years, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to fostering talent in others.
Beyond her teaching, Rhyan is a role model for younger teams in Lumsden, providing guidance and encouragement as a volunteer guest coach. Her dedication to the sport and its future is truly inspiring.
Rhyan's accomplishments on the field are equally impressive. She has been part of teams that achieved the RMSL League Championship in both 2021 and 2022, earned a provincial silver medal in 2022, and secured a provincial gold medal in 2023. She also represented her province at the national level, finishing fifth in 2024.
For her hard work and dedication, Rhyan has received numerous accolades, including an athletic scholarship for softball at Valley City State University and a Leadership Academic scholarship. Her recognition on the 2023 VCSU Dean’s Honor Roll speaks volumes about her commitment to excellence both in the classroom and on the field.
Although Rhyan is unable to be with us today, we celebrate her remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to her community. It is my honor to present the Ed Mann Memorial Bursary to Rhyan Sigmeth. Congratulations, Rhyan! Your hard work and dedication are an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to seeing the incredible things you will achieve in the future. Thank you.